A letter To the Editor

Kadman Leon 16 street
Holon, Israel

October 17, 2009

The editor

14 Shenkar street
Holon, Israel

Dear editor,

I would like to comment in regards to your article “The Israeli Defense Force”. The article you wrote was very inspiring and interesting to read. However, some of the things you mentioned concerning the military were upsetting to me. It seems to me that I should express my opinion since I am a citizen of the country.

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The Israel Defense Forces is Israel's military forces, comprising the ground forces, air force and navy. The IDF is headed by its Chief of General Staff, the Ramatkal, subordinate to the Defense Minister of Israel. The Israel Defense Forces differs from most armed forces in the world in many ways, including the conscription of women, and the structure, with close relations between the ground forces, air force and navy. Since its founding, the IDF has striven to be a unique army, fitting Israel's specific requirements.

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The boys have to serve three years in the military and the girls have to serve two years. Even though I am a girl, I think that both sexes should serve the same number of years. In addition, Although the recruitment is obligatory, in practice, a significant percentage of teenagers do not enlist due to various reasons. Lately we can see a significant increase of army's draft dodgers and it bothers me.

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I think Israel should do its best to stop the draft dodging of the Israeli teenagers. Everyone has to serve in the IDF, since he is a citizen in the country. I believe that we will be proud of our army, and the difference between boys and girls has nothing to do with dodging the military service.

(92)

Daphna